Prom 2013: Top trends

When searching for the right prom dress, experts such as Rent the Runway fashion Director Lucy Sykes Rellie and "Say Yes to the Dress: Atlanta" image consultant Monte Durham advise taking a hint from the red carpet. "Dakota and Elle Fanning have great red carpet style, because they're able to flaunt their girlie sides while still showing their personalities and pushing the envelope," says Rellie. From bold colors and embellishments to sweetheart necklines and high-low hems, here are some of the top trends expected at high school proms this year.

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BRIGHTS Bright colors are hot for prom this year, but keep silhouettes simple to prevent going overboard. This strapless dress with ruched bust and beading is $99 at David's Bridal stores.

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BRIGHTS Bold red is always a show stopper. This Pamella Roland Declaration of Love Gown retails for $1,925, but you can rent it for $260 at renttherunway.com.

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METALLICS Prom is your one night to shine, and metallic details are here to help. This Erin by Erin Fetherston Metallic Drizzle Gown retails for $550, but you can rent it for $115 at renttherunway.com.

EMBELLISHMENTS
Vera Wang knows bridal, so it's no surprise her WHITE by Vera Wang prom dress has the same floral-inspired details as the season's hottest wedding gowns. This bubble dress with organza petals is $198, at David's Bridal in Massapequa Park and davidsbridal.com.

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BLACK AND WHITE When these two classics are put together, color need not apply. This Yuliana V-neck evening dress by BCBGMAXAZRIA is $338, at bcbgmaxazria.com.

FLORALS Floral prints are an ultra-feminine way to make your prom dress pop. This BCBG one shoulder sweetheart gown is $448 at select BCBG, Bloomingdale's, Saks Fifth Avenue and Nordstrom stores and online.

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ONE SHOULDER Sweetheart tops are the popular cut this season, but add an asymmetrical twist for a fun but elegant touch. This LM by Mignon one shoulder gown also has sheer detail with sequin embellishments, $288 at bloomingdales.com.

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HIGH-LOW With the glamour of a floor-length gown and the sex appeal of a mini, high-low styles are the perfect mix for prom. This Nicole Miller Georgette gown is $495 at select Saks Fifth Avenue stores and saksfifthavenue.com.

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SWEETHEART NECKLINES This girly cut is a hit this year with the prom crowd. This tulle gown in navy blue is $289 at David's Bridal stores and davidsbridal.com.

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LACE This year's lace styles put a fresh new spin on the timeless classic. This Nha Khanh Noir Timeless Love Dress retails for $885, but you can rent it for $125 at renttherunway.com.